Small Groups. Big Growth.
Why It Works
Small Groups. Big Growth.
Experience
Led By Therapists And Teachers
In-Person Only
We Meet Face-To-Face. No Screens.
Once-A-Week
Skills Stick When Revisited During Our 7-Weekly Sessions
Small Group
Everyone Is Heard And Supported.
Skills Are Tested and Practiced.
Social Learning
Kids Learn With and From Each Other.
Parents Are Partners
We Help You Practice Lessons At Home
Why It's Needed...Now
There has been accelerated growth of stress, anxiety and depression among teens. In 2023, a CDC survey revealed that nearly 40% of high school students experienced persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, marking a sharp increase over the last decade.
The research supports what parents already know. Over a quarter of US parents report a decline in their children's mental health, and 14% report increased behavioral problems.
Psychologists describe this period, especially since 2010, as a "mental health crises" - fueled by social media, screen time, societal pressures and other factors.
While not all contributing factors are preventable, Social Ease Works is designed to catch concerns upstream. We help kids develop social self-confidence and resilience before potential issues escalate.
Who We Are
Sara Zimmerman
MSW, LICSW
Coach & Content Development.
A therapist with 25+ years of experience helping kids and teens build emotional resilience, Sara brings an understanding of what kids need now to thrive as teens later.
Mark Dwyer
Business Development.
Entrepreneur, parent and co-creator of Social Ease Works, Mark helps bring structure, heart and attention to the program.
"I am excited to be using my experience in small groups to help kids build a strong foundation for emotional well-being before their high-school years. By blending evidence-based therapy techniques with mindfulness and emotional regulation, I aim for Social Ease Works to help kids develop the tools they need to navigate life with confidence and resilience." Sara Z.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this therapy?
No. This is not therapy. Curriculum is built on evidence-based skills, refined by Sara's firsthand experience as a child therapist for over 25 years. This is a pro-active program.
What kinds of kids benefit here?
Kids who are confident or shy. All kinds! This is about helping every child develop tools to navigate friendships, social pressures, and the road ahead.
When can we sign up our middle-schooler?
We are adding a series for grades 6-8 in the Fall. Please let us know now if you may be interested.
What if we cannot make a session or two?
No problem. Flexible pricing is offered when plans get in the way. You can sign up and pay for 5 or 6 sessions, versus all 7.
Do parents attend?
This is kids-only. Parents are kept in the loop with group progress reports and a wrap-up after the series ends.
How big are the groups?
Each group is limited to 12 kids. This keeps the energy personal and engaging.
How can we learn more?
Speak with Sara. Please use the form to leave your contact information, and we will follow-up with you.
Summer Series for Grades 3-5
Small Groups. Big Growth.
Dates
Each Wednesday, July 9 - August 20
Times
4:30 - 6:00 pm
Location
Edina Senior Center
5280 Grandview Square
Near Vernon Ave. & Highway 100
Ages
Summer Rate
Group Size
Led By
Grades 3-5 (adding grades 6-8 in Fall)
$280 for 7 sessions
This is a great chance to try the program at a reduced rate. Standard pricing will begin in the fall.
Max 12 kids
Sara Zimmerman
MSW, LICSW
Let's Connect
To ask a question or express interest in an upcoming series, just let us know. Thank you!
Sara Zimmerman
Coach and Director of Programming
612 840-5397
Mark Dwyer
Business Development
612 481-0293
